28 years: The evolution of Homearama

By Staci Dennis
Correspondent

Where were you in '82?

HBO made its television debut, Atari introduced Pac Man, and Trivial Pursuit was the hottest-selling board game.

Twenty-eight years ago Hampton Roads builders took a chance and signed on for the first Homearama.

The event, held in Bayberry Woods in Chesapeake, started a tradition that annually draws thousands of visitors from across the region.

"We thought we had grand houses and over-the-top designs back then," said Sandra Amidon, staff vice president of Homearama home shows and special projects with Tidewater Builders Association. "We just got bigger and better every year."

The event, which showcases the latest in architecture, home trends and designs, has its roots in Chesapeake. The show has found a home there 15 times during the history of Homearama.

This year is no exception: Culpepper Landing is in the heart of Deep Creek, nestled alongside the Great Dismal Swamp.

"The growth of Homearama, especially during the 1980s, coincided with the population growth of the city of Chesapeake, when it came into its own as one of the largest cities in Virginia," said Pete A. Kotarides, TBA president.

"The site selection is based on a number of factors, including the ability of the site to attract and accommodate a large number of visitors."

Amidon, who helped gather builders for the first Homearama, said each year holds new surprises.

In 2004, for example, when Homearama was held in East Beach in Norfolk, one builder featured a porch in the trees complete with a fireplace.

"You never know what you are going to get from year to year," she said. "But you know it will be good."

Homearama not only showcases area builders but highlights cutting-edge technology and the latest in building.

One example is this year's modular home, The Whitaker, which SGB Homes had built off-site and delivered to the neighborhood in sections.

"People get the wrong idea about modular homes," said SGB builder Scott Brooker. "Now the public can see how nice they can be."

Herb Watson, with The Walters Company Inc., has two homes in the show this year and said he enjoys being part of Homearama because of the positive feedback from showgoers.

"It's a time to sit back and relax and hear from people about what they like and think you did well," said Watson.

"Typically, all we hear is what's wrong. This is a time we can hear what's right."

Watson is the chairman of Homearama 2009. He first joined the show in two years ago after talking with Amidon, who convinced him to participate.

"I wouldn't miss it," he said. "It's the highlight of the year."

Homearama also helps draw attention to the host city.

"It raises the profile of the host community and the host city as a great place to live and work," Kotarides said.

"It brings visitors from all over the region and gives them a chance to see what the community has to offer."

Homearama runs today through Oct. 18.

Staci Dennis, sdennis@cox.net